Our young people recently explored some of London’s most iconic landmarks along The Queen’s Walk, a pedestrian route on the Thames’ South Bank established for the 1977 Silver Jubilee. It includes views of Tower Bridge, the London Eye and Big Ben, all beautifully illuminated at night.
Despite being Londoners, several had never taken time to see these landmarks, making their experience particularly meaningful.
British Museum
A visit to the British Museum saw HP’s young people exploring, and taking photos and notes on collections spanning thousands of years, including Egyptian, Greek, Islamic and British history. One enthused,
“I enjoyed seeing the history from so many different cultures. I will definitely spend more time here, as there is so much to learn from.
Wellcome Collection and British Library
The Wellcome Collection’s Being Human exhibition prompted thoughtful conversations about health, culture and shared humanity across time. These continued at the British Library, where young people viewed historic manuscripts and sacred texts from around the world. One young person was particularly excited to encounter a 16th-century Bible written in Ge’ez — a language they speak — and translated a passage for the group.
London Zoo
Responding to interest shown by the young people during keywork sessions and house meetings, HP arranged a visit to ZSL London Zoo. The group planned their route as an exercise aligned to their ASDANLiving Independently course, taking the bus and walking through Regent’s Park. One shared:
“I was so excited to see the gardens and facilities – I had no idea they were here, close to home.”
There was quiet excitement at the zoo as the group respectfully observed and learned about beasts large and small, from lionesses to insects.
